SMCRA: ten years of solid progress

Journal Article · · Forum Appl. Res. Publ. Pol.; (United States)

OSTI ID:7244566

Lawson, R L

Few federal regulatory programs have generated more controversy than the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act (SMCRA). From the beginning of legislative deliberations in 1970, to congressional approval in 1977, and throughout the implementation process since, SMCRA has been the subject of a classic political debate. Today, SMCRA is under more scrutiny than ever, and tough questions are being asked. How well does the law work. Where has it succeeded and where has it failed. What changes would improve it, and should such changes be considered at this time. One policy question seems to overshadow all others: why, after all these years, does the issue remain so volatile. The author concludes that coal producers and environmentalists have been polarized far too long; further, technology to get the job done is proven. Only political differences need to be resolved in an atmosphere of rational deliberation.

• Research Organization: National Coal Association, Washington, DC (USA)
• OSTI ID: 7244566
• Journal Information: Forum Appl. Res. Publ. Pol.; (United States), Journal Name: Forum Appl. Res. Publ. Pol.; (United States) Vol. 3:1; ISSN FARPE
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

01 COAL, LIGNITE, AND PEAT
012020* -- Coal
Lignite
& Peat-- Surface Mining-- (1987-)
017000 -- Coal
Lignite
& Peat-- Legislation & Regulations
29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
293000 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Policy
Legislation
& Regulation
294000 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Fossil Fuels
COAL MINING
EVALUATION
IMPLEMENTATION
INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS
LAWS
MINING
MINING LAWS
POLITICAL ASPECTS
REGULATIONS
SURFACE MINING ACTS